DENVER — The good news for the 49ers in tonight’s meeting against the Broncos and quarterback Peyton Manning: Starting cornerback Tramaine Brock is active for the first time since he sustained a turf-toe injury in the season opener. …

DENVER — At his introductory press conference in January 2011, fresh-from-Stanford Jim Harbaugh was asked about the successful college coaches – Steve Spurrier, Nick Saban, Bobby Petrino et al – who had flopped in the NFL. …

In their past eight regular-season games dating to last year, the 49ers have faced two of the best tight ends in NFL history: Atlanta’s now-retired Tony Gonzalez and Dallas’ Jason Witten, who rank first and second, respectively, in career receptions at their position. …